Small business growing strong in Apple Isle

SMALL business in Tasmania is surging ahead with growth above the national average; Federal Minister for Small Business Michael McCormack visited the Apple Isle on a two-day trip saying he was thrilled to know Tassie small businesses were thriving.

Mr McCormack said he was excited to visit Devonport and Ulverstone and meet some great Tassie small businesses, which employ around 100,000 Tasmanians and make up around 97 per cent of all business in the state.

"Tasmania has everything going for it, from beautiful fresh produce which is the envy of the world, a gorgeous tourist destination and a thriving hospitality sector," said Mr McCormack.

"There are 36,000 small businesses in Tasmania and this number is growing and this great news for the local economy as small business create jobs, provide opportunity and grow local communities.

"Recent business survey data from Sensis shows that Tasmania has had the strongest growth of any state in Australia and this is something small businesses should be proud of and is a great result from the support both levels of Governments are providing the Apple Isle.

"The Federal Government is backing each and every one of these businesses by lowering taxes to 25 per cent over the decade, extending the $20,000 instant asset write-off, ensuring fair competition by amending Section 46 as well as an ambitious Tasmanian infrastructure commitment."

Mr McCormack was joined by Tasmania Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business Roger Jaensch, who said it was great to show off the strong small business communities in Devonport and Ulverstone to the Federal Minister for Small Business.

"Despite the floods and the fires we have experienced in recent times, Tassie businesses have bounced back and are growing stronger," Mr Jaensch said.

"The Hodgman Liberal Government is a strong supporter of small businesses and we are committed to backing them through creating the right programs and policy settings to see them thrive."

Small business policy forums were held over the two-day visit with Australia Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman and senior leaders from the Australian Taxation Office and Australian Competition and Consumer Commission attending. The forums provide an opportunity for small businesses to learn more about Federal Government programme support.